Medical Imaging

For detailed information on your test, what to expect, the duration of the test and what preparation is needed, please view our comprehensive patient information sheets - specific to the type of test or scan you are having.

Computed Tomography (CT) is performed using X-rays and a sophisticated computer that obtains information from many angles to create cross-sectional slices. These slices can be put together to generate detailed images in any plane. CT is an excellent diagnostic tool which is used to detect multiple medical conditions and can also look quickly and accurately at the lungs, internal organs and the bowel. The scanners at Cabrini are among the lowest dose scanners available, with typically 40% less dose than older models.

General X-Ray

General X-rays are the most common diagnostic imaging test usually performed for assessing injured limbs or examining the chest for possible infection. A picture is taken of the inside of the body by a machine, which emits a small amount of radiation energy. The X-rays cast shadows of soft tissue and bone, these shadows are captured and displayed on a computer screen. General X-ray is a quick, painless procedure and the images can be made available to your referring Doctor immediately.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an examination that can produce very detailed images of your body without the use of radiation. MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to visualize your internal organs and soft tissues such as the brain, spinal cord, blood vessels, muscle, cartilage and skin. MRI uses a very powerful magnet; therefore it may be necessary check any surgical implants to determine if it is safe for you to have a scan. This includes pacemakers, aneurysm clips, stapes (ear) implants or other metallic foreign bodies. The MRI reception staff will mail/email you a copy of the MRI checklist, or you can click on the link below to download and print out a copy.

You are welcome to bring your iPod, mp3 player or iPhone as we are able to play music for the majority of our examinations.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses a sound wave with a frequency much higher than human hearing. Diagnostic Ultrasound, or Sonography, is similar in principle to sonar in a submarine whereby images are formed by detecting reflected sound waves or echoes. Most people are familiar with ultrasound examinations as they are routinely used during pregnancy. Gel is placed on the relevant body part and a small hand held ultrasound probe or transducer is applied. The transducer emits a high frequency sound wave, which then passes into the body. Some sound is reflected back to the transducer and this reflection is reconstructed as an image on a monitor. Ultrasound is used to image many soft tissue structures in the body including blood vessels, muscles and internal organs.

Angiography

Angiography is a diagnostic test performed to evaluate your blood vessels, usually arteries, and most commonly is used to look at the blood vessels of the brain, chest, abdomen and legs. Angiography is performed by a specialist doctor and nursing team. Contrast is injected into the blood vessels to be seen on the x-ray image in real-time. Blockages and narrowing of the blood vessels are easily seen and may sometimes be treated in the same visit. It may also be used to demonstrate leakage or bleeding from a blood vessel, such as in the bowel.

Screening (Fluoroscopy)

Fluoroscopy is a diagnostic test that uses real-time x-ray images and is most commonly used to assess the function of a particular body part. Fluoroscopy is routinely used to look at swallowing (Barium Meal), the bowel and bladder and is also an excellent tool for the radiologist when performing procedures such as lumbar punctures.

Low Radiation Dose Principles

The department is committed to patient safety by investing in technology and utilising techniques that result in the lowest possible radiation dose to your patient without impacting on diagnostic outcomes.